Chicago Housing Options Survey Tool
Communities across the country have recognized the need for improved systems to help homeless and at-risk individuals and families access housing options and appropriate services more efficiently. In the homeless service delivery system, the path to housing is often a confusing mix of very specific entrance and eligibility criteria and multiple applications. Navigating the requirements and restrictions for housing or prevention opportunities can be challenging for case managers and even more difficult for those who are trying to access the assistance. There is often no clear way for clients, case managers, or providers to identify the most appropriate housing programs, make informed choices, and provide accurate referrals. Additionally, funders and system planners have no concrete data to show who is or is not being housed in our communities.
CSH's Role
CSH has created a web-based tool for Chicago, the Housing Options Survey Tool (HOST), that is designed to streamline the process of connecting clients with the affordable and supportive housing options that can best meet their needs. CSH’s primary objectives in designing this tool were to: create a simple and efficient means for providing complete listings of permanent housing and prevention options for clients and case managers; and to develop mechanisms for ranking housing options to help case managers and clients identify and target their referrals and housing interventions more effectively.
Impact and Outcomes
HOST launched in Chicago in April 2009 and as of February 2010 more than 3,000 surveys had been completed. As of the third quarter of 2009, the City of Chicago required that a HOST survey be completed for all clients entering an emergency shelter or interim housing staffed with case managers. Case managers are also required to refer clients to at least three options. HOST insures that each client is provided with a complete ranked list of all housing options for which he or she meets baseline eligibility criteria. Even options that do not appear to be the best fit for a particular client will still appear on the list. This process serves to increase equity across the homelessness system as well as provide quicker access to critically important information. Screening for HPRP and connection to real-time availability of permanent supportive housing are also now available.
Next Steps
Beginning in 2011, four organizations--Catholic Charities, Heartland Human Care Services, Housing Opportunities for Women and Inspiration Corporation--are participating in a pilot to centralize access to their permanent housing with short-term support units. Instead of needing to apply to each agency separately you will now complete one waitlist application in order to be considered for units with all four agencies.
Partners
Chicago Department of Family and Support Services, Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), Illinois Division of Mental Health (DMH), Catholic Charities, Heartland Human Care Services, Housing Opportunities for Women and Inspiration Corporation.
Related Resources
Related Websites
